Sony isn't exactly known for low-priced computer hardware,
but the company is looking to turn some heads with its new VAIO NR series of
entry-level notebooks.

The new notebooks are based around a 15.4" WXGA screen
with XBRITE-ECO technology. The NR110 and NR120 are available with a 1.46GHz
Pentium Dual Core processor, the NR140 uses a 1.6GHz Pentium Dual Core
processor and the NR160 uses a 1.5GHz Core 2 Duo processor.

The NR140 comes with a 120GB HDD while the rest of the
lineup includes a 160GB HDD. All models feature 1GB of DDR2 memory, an Intel
GMA X3100 integrated graphics accelerator and a dual-layer DVD burner.

Sony gives buyers the choice of three exterior colors for
the VAIO NR notebooks: brown, bright white and granite.

The VAIO NR series measures 14.2" x 10.6" x
1.5" and weighs a hefty 6.2 pounds with the standard battery. Sony lists
the battery life at 2.5 to 4.5 hours with the standard battery and 4 to 7.5
hours with the extended battery.

The VAIO NR series will start at $750 and will be available
from Sony Style next month.

"What would I do? I'd shut it down and give the money back to the shareholders." -- Michael Dell, after being asked what to do with Apple Computer in 1997